IX explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Capitalism and Moral Compromise

  The conflict between Dryfoos's financial power and March's ethical stance highlights the moral compromises inherent in capitalist ventures.

• Labor and Social Justice

  Lindau's dismissal over his radical views underscores the tension between labor advocacy and the interests of capital.

Characters to notice

• Fulkerson

  Anxious and desperate to resolve the conflict between March and Dryfoos; seeks advice from Beaton and later enlists Miss Woodburn's help.

• Angus Beaton

  Dines at Maroni's and discusses the crisis with Fulkerson; suggests using Colonel Woodburn as an intermediary.

• Basil March

  Referenced as the literary editor who refuses to fire Lindau over his private opinions; stands firm on principle.

• Mr. Dryfoos

  The financial backer who demands Lindau's dismissal; remains intransigent despite Fulkerson's efforts.

• Mr. Lindau

  The translator whose controversial opinions caused the rift; has withdrawn from the magazine, resolving the immediate crisis.

• Miss Woodburn

  Fulkerson's romantic interest; he seeks her help to persuade her father, Colonel Woodburn, to mediate with Dryfoos.

Key passages

• “The main question, as March looks at it, is the question of punishing Lindau for his private opinions; he says that if he consents to my bouncing the old fellow it's the same as if he bounced him.”

  March believes that firing Lindau for his personal beliefs would make him complicit in the punishment.

  March's principled stand against punishing Lindau for his views.

• “Why don't you let March go?”

  Beaton suggests firing March to resolve the conflict.

  Beaton's pragmatic but cynical proposal.

• “Get that other old fool to go to Dryfoos for you!”

  Beaton recommends using Colonel Woodburn as an intermediary with Dryfoos.

  Beaton's strategic suggestion to enlist Colonel Woodburn.